After achieving an excellent reputation for its imaging characteristics, Sigma has revised this popular high-speed APS-C format standard lens, adding it to its high-performance Art line. Read on to see how well this new iteration performs in our labs.

Sigma is reorganizing its lens range in to three product categories; Contemporary, Sports and Art, the latter of which this new model is a part of is reserved for its highest performing lenses. With its angle of view equivalent to a 45mm on a full-frame 35mm camera, the 30mm f/1.4 DC HSM A has been substantially revised with a new optical construction of 9 elements in 8 groups (over the previous 7 elements in 7 groups), closer minimum focus distance of 30cm (down from 40cm) and 9 diaphragm blades as opposed to the earlier iteration’s 8 blades. New algorithms are said to improve the AF performance of the built-in ultrasonic type motor, while compatibility with the firm’s innovative USB Dock allows focus adjustment and updating of firmware. Lastly, a high quality outer shell and finish has been adopted in accordance with others in the Art line, but despite the improvements, the price remains the same as the older model at $499.

Further readings for the Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC HSM A Canon and Nikon mount lens reviews: good all-round performer

To provide photographers with a broader perspective about mobiles, lenses and cameras, here are links to articles, reviews, and analyses of photographic equipment produced by DxOMark, renown websites, magazines or blogs.

Re: Nikon results surprising

Quote:

DxOMark score does not depend on the optical scores.It depends on the measurement perfomed for Sharpness, Distorsion, TStop, and shading. Noise, dynamic range and Color depth are taken into account too.

But in this case both lenses were tested on the same camera (ie, noise and dynamic range are the same). Differences could come from the fact that the separate scores (DxOMark Score, sharpness, transmission, etc.) are not calculated at the same f-stop for a given lens. For example, if the vignetting score is based on the maximum vignetting (ie, wide open) whereas the DxO Score is valid for the best f-stop of a lens.

But looking at the data in detail that doesn't seem to be the case here, the Sigma is better at basically all f-stops. What might be the case here is differences in how things are averaged over the whole frame for the individual scores and the DxOMarks Score. The Sigma drops resolution earlier and deeper when going towards the corners.

Thanks for the review

This review shows me a lot of clear and positive information about this lens.I have this lens for a few weeks mounted on my Nikon D7000. I also had the Nikon 35mm 1.8g lens. The Sigma lens is way better build and the built-in autofocus motor is much quieter. As I experience it so far, the image quality/sharpness is a little better on the Sigma. Anyway, thanks again for this review, it is just like you describe, Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC HSM A: good all-round performer

Anxious to see results on this one

I have a Canon 7D and am anxiously awaiting the results of DxO testing of this lens on that camera. I want a fast prime in this focal length and just sold my Canon EF 28mm f/1.8 because it wasn't all that great.

First replies for this comment

Re: Anxious to see results on this one

Hello,

Thanks for your interest in DxOMark.

More than 120 lenses on the 7D are already available on the website but we did not write any specific review as this camera is a bit old now. You can check the 700D ranking too. Or use our filter tools to check which lens would be the best for you.